In the past two years, Ernst & Young (EY) has experienced two particularly significant developments that have shaped its trajectory. One of the most notable events was the announcement of their global revenue for the fiscal year 2024, reaching US$51.2 billion, marking a 3.9% increase in local currency as reported in a recent EY global news release. This growth reflects the firm's resilience amidst economic uncertainties and its ability to expand across various service lines. Additionally, EY has continued to push its sustainability and societal impact agenda, with the release of the EY Value Realized 2025 annual report, highlighting their commitment to creating long-term value for clients, employees, and communities. These milestones underscore EY’s focus on financial performance and purpose-driven initiatives, which are critical for young professionals evaluating the firm’s stability and ethos.

Ernst & Young, commonly known as EY, is a British multinational professional services network headquartered in London, forming part of the prestigious Big Four alongside Deloitte, KPMG, and PwC. As detailed on their global website, EY operates in over 150 countries with approximately 393,000 employees as of mid-2024, offering services in assurance, tax, consulting, and transaction advisory. The firm positions itself as a leader in solving complex client challenges, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability. For university students and young professionals in investment banking, trading, or corporate finance, EY represents a powerhouse employer with vast resources and global reach. Its current strategy focuses on innovation and building a better working world, making it an attractive option for those seeking impactful careers in a dynamic industry.

EY boasts several competitive advantages that set it apart in the professional services landscape, particularly appealing to aspiring finance professionals. One key strength is its expansive global network, with over 700 offices worldwide, providing unparalleled exposure to international markets and diverse client portfolios, as noted in their US homepage. Additionally, EY’s heavy investment in technology—especially in AI, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity—positions it as a forward-thinking firm, equipping employees with cutting-edge tools to tackle modern financial challenges. The firm also excels in fostering talent through robust training programmes and a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, which can be a significant draw for graduates seeking a supportive workplace. These strengths make EY a formidable player, offering young professionals a platform to build versatile, high-impact careers.

Despite its strengths, EY faces certain challenges that could impact its appeal to potential employees. One notable limitation is the intense workload and high-pressure environment, particularly in audit and advisory roles, which can lead to burnout among junior staff—a concern often highlighted in industry discussions. Additionally, while EY is a leader in many areas, its size can sometimes result in slower decision-making processes due to complex internal structures, potentially frustrating young professionals eager for agility. The firm has also faced scrutiny in the past over regulatory and ethical issues in specific markets, which could raise questions about risk exposure for employees. For graduates considering EY, these factors suggest a need to weigh the prestige and opportunities against the demanding culture and occasional operational inefficiencies.

EY is well-positioned to capitalise on several growth areas that could offer exciting prospects for young professionals entering the finance sector. The firm’s focus on digital transformation and emerging technologies like AI and blockchain presents opportunities to work on innovative projects that shape the future of finance, as outlined in their business growth services page. Additionally, EY’s commitment to sustainability and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) initiatives aligns with growing client demand for responsible business practices, opening roles in advisory services related to green finance and corporate responsibility. The expansion of consulting services in high-growth regions also offers potential for international assignments, appealing to graduates seeking global exposure. These opportunities highlight EY as a firm where young talent can engage with cutting-edge trends and make a tangible impact.

Externally, EY faces several risks and competitive pressures that could influence its market position and, by extension, career prospects for employees. Intense competition from the other Big Four firms, as well as boutique consultancies with niche expertise, poses a constant challenge to retain top clients and talent. Economic downturns or geopolitical instability could also reduce client budgets for advisory services, impacting revenue streams and potentially limiting hiring or promotions. Moreover, increasing regulatory scrutiny on professional services firms globally could lead to stricter compliance demands, adding operational complexity, as occasionally covered in industry news like Business Standard updates. For young professionals, these threats mean that while EY offers stability as a large employer, external factors could influence job security or growth trajectories in unpredictable ways.